HearYa Live Session 10: Dusty Rhodes and the River Band

by Woody on November 27, 2007

Last week I received an e-mail from Shirk wondering if I could attend a session by Dusty Rhodes and the River Band. I hadn’t heard of them before, but I had heard of the wrestler by the same name, aka “The American Dream.” I headed into the studio for my first Dusty Rhodes and the River Band experience.

The band poured out of the band looking a little worse for wear after a night opening up for Blind Melon. Yes, that Blind Melon. The six members lugged their crap up three flights of stairs and looked like they were going to need a jump-start to get going. Well that proved to be the least of my concerns.

Midway through the first track, “Goodnight Moonshine,” it became obvious that the six band mates have boundless energy and truly enjoy playing music and performing together. The lineup, complete with mandolins, keys and violins punch out a nice 70′s sound with some tinges of country. Dustin Apodaca, one of the lead vocalists, has a persona that is captivating live. I wish I could have caught them performing in front of a real Chicago audience.

As the band progressed through their set, I commented to Steve, “I think they wouldn’t even know if we left. We could come back in an hour and I think that they would still be here playing.” Soon thereafter, Steve asked them about a rumored cover of “End of The Road” by Boyz II Men. Apparently there was no recorded version of the tune, but that was soon remedied as the gang tore through a raucous version in the studio.

All and all, it was a very enjoyable set by a band that is just starting to make some noise on the national scene.

I saw these guys last weekend at Schubas and they were great. Each of the six band members has something cool to contribute to their sound. No one trick pony band here, they wear lots of hats. I also like the sense of humor in the writing…never taking themselves too serious.

I think they just got off a tour with Mofro are heading out on the road with Flogging Molly for a few more dates. Definitely worth checking out.

i was lucky enough to stumble across these guys on tour with Blind Melon. i had no idea what other bands were on the tour, and i missed the first act. i did however, get to see Dusty Rhodes and the River Band’s entire set. i gotta say i was downright impressed. these guys have classic rock soul, a great stage presence, and lyrics we can all relate to. if you ever get the chance to see this band live, be sure not to miss ‘em. you’ll be noddin’ your head and singin’ along by the end of the first song.

These characters are sharp. This is a band that has their shit together and will blow you away if you give em half a second. Must see them live. One of the most unique albums I’ve heard this year and definitely the best band on their label. Check out their rad video too, it’s for ‘dear honey’ and is mighty sick…

I saw these guys with the Melon in Columbus Ohio last year and they rocked the house. Ater their set I hung out with the band and they are the coolest. I have tickets to see them again in Indy on Feb.10 and I can’t wait. Everyone should see them.